Those three positions are the top positions within the city and the only ones who report directly to the City Council. They are evaluated both by the council members and by some of the people who report to them.

Brautigam and Carr received "exceptionally high" performance ratings, while Cooke received a "superior" performance rating.

All eight City Council members present Thursday voted in favor of the raises. Councilwoman K.C. Becker was absent.

The 3 percent raise brings Brautigam's annual salary to $202,560 from $196,660. Carr will now be paid $181,229, up from $175,950. Cooke will receive $131,068, up from $127,250.

The council members said the raises were based on a high level of performance and were not automatic.

The council also increased the three employees' vacation time so that they get the same amount of vacation as department directors.

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